At the outset of the intervention the counselor will discuss the effects of excess weight on diabetes and how complications of diabetes can be decreased with improved diet and increased activity level. In terms of diet, participants are taught how to: use a fat counter and read labels; weigh and measure foods; eat less fat; change eating habits to better match the food pyramid; choose healthy eating behaviors; make healthy food choices when eating out; and relate calorie balance to weight loss. To promote physical activity participants discuss: current activity level; benefits of being more active; possible activities that can be undertaken regularly; how to overcome barriers to activity; and ways to prevent injury. The participants also learn how to use an accelerometer. Later in the program patients learn the definition of aerobic fitness and its relationship to frequency, intensity, time and type of activity. Ways to add interest and variety to activity plans are also discussed.